Weekly or short-break self-charter boating holidays on Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal
We operate a large fleet of modern, high quality motor cruisers, all fully equipped and available for weekly or short-break self charter cruises on Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal.
With 24 vessels and a range of 9 different classes to choose from, whichever boat you choose, you can be assured it will be the perfect vantage point to explore 60 miles of Europe’s most beautiful inland waterway. Our existing fleet is specifically designed for our unique waterway, each vessel being fitted out at our premises in Inverness.
Our Boats
Our fleet is specifically designed for our unique waterway, each vessel being fitted out at our premises in Inverness…
Our Area
Based in Inverness, in the north-east of Scotland, this is both the pick up and return point for all cruises with us. Conveniently located just a few minutes drive from the city centre, we are just 2 miles from Inverness Train Station and 10 miles from Inverness Airport.
Instructional Videos
We hope you enjoy watching these short films. They should provide you with a good picture as to what cruising the Caledonian Canal is about.
Meet Our Team
To keep our fleet in tip top condition, we have dedicated a team who look after all aspects of maintaining the hire fleet, from the rudder, shaft and engine right through to interiors and furnishings.
Our Story
Established in 1969, we celebrated our 50th anniversary in 2019 and during our many years of operation we have introduced thousands of couples and families to the splendours of the Great Glen. No previous boating experience or licence are necessary (approximately one third of our customers are completely new to boating) and we provide a comprehensive handover with 24 hour support service during your stay.
Customers love their holidays and come back time and again
Rated out of 5 stars based on customer reviews
Latest news & updates from Caley Cruisers
Canal Magic in the Scottish Highlands
Looking for peace, beauty or a little adventure? Think tranquil waters, breathtaking Highland views, cozy nights and unforgettable moments.
All Aboard! We are pet friendly!
Every Captain needs their four-legged First Mate…plus your furry friend deserves a holiday too! To make their adventure extra special, we now include a Dog Welcome Pack! We have teamed…
Cruise Into 2025: Secure Your Highland Boating Adventure for Just £100
Discover the Magic of the Highlands from the Water The Highlands of Scotland are a world-renowned destination for breathtaking landscapes along the banks of Loch Ness, tranquil waterways of the…
Charity Partner 2025
This year our charity partner will be DAY1. DAY1 mentoring program helps young people to become focused end encourages them to unlock their potential, regain self-confidence and ultimately help them…
Gift Vouchers Special Offer
Give the gift of serenity this Christmas! Surprise your loved ones with a unique experience – a private houseboat stay in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Perfect for those…
Eriskay Walkthrough
Our Eriskay Class is the perfect small boat for families or couples. With even more flexibility, with no set change over days and as little as a two night stay,…
Strathspey Walkthrough
Have a look around the Strathspey! A very popular boat in our fleet, it is perfect for 2 couples or friends, with plenty of space to relax. As we only…
Torridon Walkthrough
Check out the Torridon class in some more detail with Derek. This boat is very spacious and perfect for larger groups or families, so you can still have your own…
Experience Autumn on the Caledonian Canal
Explore our latest autumn offers and experience the stunning colours of the Highlands before the end of the season! Unlock exclusive discount codes here.
Nikki’s Recommendations
Staff Recommendations – Part 4! Hear from Nikki, our Reservations Manager, on her favourite things to see and do along the canal. If you see Captain Nemo in the office,…
Balmoral Walkthrough
The Balmoral Class! A very popular boat class in our fleet, that is perfect for families. Take a look around and learn more about the Balmoral.
Lindsey’s Recommendations
Part 3 of our Staff Recommendations series highlighting our favorite things to see and do along the canal. Our manager Lindsey recently travelled down the second half of the canal…
Derek’s Recommendations
Part 2 of our Staff Recommendations series highlighting our favorite things to see and do along the canal.
Isle of Skye Walkthrough
Take a look at our beautiful Isle of Skye – also known as our honeymoon boat due to her generous sized double cabin: perfect for couples!
Discover Why Caley Cruisers is the Best Choice for Boat Hire
Trust us, it’s an adventure you don’t want to miss! When it comes to choosing the best boat hire for your needs, we know you have a few options in…
Maddy’s Recommendations
Part 1 of our Staff Recommendations series highlighting our favoritethings to see and do along the canal.
Islay Class – new for 2024
Come and explore our new boat with us.
Charity Partner for 2024
We are delighted to announce our new charity partner for 2024. SNAP exists to improve the lives of young people with additional needs by providing social experiences, building self-esteem, and…
New Boats to Join our Fleet in 2024
We are delighted to announce that we are adding two new boats to our fleet next year. Islay (1) (Pet Free) will join in May 2024 for Friday and Tuesday…
Kinging-It Travel Blog
We were delighted to work with Craig and Aimee on their new blog with Visit Scotland and Scottish Canals. They tried boat life for 72 hours. Was it for them?
The Highlands are one of the “Best of the World” destinations to visit in 2023!
It’s no surprise that the Highlands are one of National Geographic’s top 5 places to visit in the world in 2023. Check out the full story here:
Our beautiful Kintail class was featured on Channel 4’s “Great Canal Journeys” with Timothy West & Prunella Scales. Kintail, and every other vessel on our fleet, was fitted out by our own team and is specifically designed for our unique cruising area. The spectacular scenery, combined with a beautiful cruiser and our first class service will ensure your holiday with Caley Cruisers is one of the most memorable and enjoyable experiences you will ever have. We are sure you will find the ideal boat to suit your party whether your looking for something to suit a couple, family or large group.
Established in 1970, we celebrated our 50th anniversary in 2020 and during our many years of operation we have introduced thousands of couples and families to the splendours of the Great Glen. No previous boating experience or licence are necessary (approximately one third of our customers are completely new to boating) and we provide a comprehensive handover with 24 hour support service during your stay. You will find a lot of detailed information about our boats, cruising area and our service contained within this website and we hope it provides the answer to any questions you may have. However, please please do not hesitate to contact us, if you have any specific queries – we would be delighted to assist. Book you perfect boating holidays Scotland.
You can check LIVE availability on our website and place a booking this way at any time. Please note that due to the online booking system in place, the availability is subject to change at any time. We therefore recommend booking online.
We look forward to hearing from you!